Can You Change the Rate of a Chemical Reaction by Changing the Particle Size of the Reactants?

In this Science Buddies science project, you’ll measure the effect of the particle size of the reactants on the rate of a chemical reaction. You can customize this kit to include the goggles, thermometer, air line tubing, and other supplies needed to complete this experiment.

Overview

The ingredients in Alka-Seltzer tablets undergo a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas as soon as the tablets hit water. Do you think you can cause the tablets to produce gas faster by breaking them into smaller pieces before dropping them in water? Find out for yourself with this project.